Volvo Q&A

I was told at 95,000 miles that the front driveshaft joint boot is leaking slightly, but that it could wait until the next oil change. Was quoted a cost of about $500. Is this within range and how critical is the repair?

I assume this is the driveshaft between the transfer case and the rear differential and not the one of the front axles? If so, the quote depends on if they're replacing the entire driveshaft, just the boot or the front driveshaft joint. Do you know what they're quoting for exactly?

Thanks for your response. Because I was told about this repair back in March, I am not certain where the boot is located other than the word "front" was mentioned. But I do know that I was told that the boot by itself could not be repaired without repairing the entire driveshaft or joint. Do you know if this is accurateabout leaking boots and maybe that is why the repair is so costly? If left without repair, what are the potential risks?

This sounds like the front joint/boot on the driveshaft (between transfer case and rear differential. The entire joint would need to be replaced and the part is likely $100+ and the labor a little over 2 hours, so that quickly adds up to several hundred and possibly up to $500. I would call around to other Volvo shops, you may find one to replace it for less.
Here are some near you: http://repairpal.com/directory?address=49544&car_brand_names=Volvo
The potential risk is that the front joint fails, causing you to become stranded. I found when these joints are going bad you'll hear a knocking/clunking noise at times when starting/stopping, but it can be hard to hear. I think I would have it inspected next time you have it in for a service and go from there. These joints can show signs of very small leakage but not necessarily need replacement.